I was so pleased to receive this letter yesterday.  Thank you.

Mr. Omans,

 

Today, while at Appalachian State University bookstore I noticed your table set up that contained a stack of your books. I was immediately drawn to the book and decided to stop for a look.  I never realized when I chose to purchase this book how intrigued I would be! I can not put the book down! I grew up at the "foot of the mountain" but have recently been offered a piece of mountain property that I am considering for purchase in Linville. The house belongs to a friend of mine that I used to work in the local emergency room with as a staff nurse. Her family is located across the United States and she has decided to call Missouri her home for now. She grew up in the mountain property and prior to that it was owned by her uncle. She has now offered it to me. I could relate to so many stories in the book due to this situation!!  Noah "warning" you of the couple that you were considering for the painting job was just the first!!  Hearing "You ain't from around here are you?" has been the latest words the "locals" have used with me, however I did grow up around here!! (just 30 miles from the mountain) I haven't finished the book yet, even though I am over half way done and I just purchased it today! I wanted to know if you still live here in NC? Is it your full time home or are you still part time "snow birds?" I simply adore Jan in the book, I hope her character in person is as wonderful as the book. I am sure I will have more questions as I read further, but I had to stop and ask because I feel so intrigued with your book and hope you had as much fun writing it as I have reading it. Thank you.